GOUVERNEUR – Henry "Hank" A. Besaw, Sr., age 78, of Gouverneur, passed away on October 16, 2023 in Syracuse.

Calling hours will be held at French Funeral Home on Thursday, October 19, 2023 from 1 – 3 p.m. followed by his funeral at 3:00 p.m. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Hank was born on January 9, 1945 in Antwerp to the late Clarence M. and Mary E. (Davis) Besaw. He attended school in Gouverneur and worked the farm for the majority of his life. He retired from E.J. Noble Hospital in December of 2013 as a member of the Grounds Crew.

Hank married Ruby D. Hartle on September 26, 1973. The couple just celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.

Hank was an avid Giant's fan and enjoyed watching Westerns, and used to bowl in the men's league. He loved his family and loved his animals. His dog, Blake, usually ate better than the rest of the family.

He is survived by his wife, Ruby Besaw, children, Genny and Jeff Hall, Rubijo and George Mandigo, Jr., Henry "Hank" Jr. and Alyssa, and Darlene Besaw, his sister, Joyce Besaw and her companion, David Mayhew, and brothers, Stanley and Stephanie Besaw and Wesley and Donna Besaw. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Jordon Mandigo, Tristen Besaw, Brianna Bush, Joey Bush, Trevor Besaw, and Genecca Potter, step-grandchildren, Kendell Mandigo, Trina Aldridge, Katelyne Dye, Allyson Hall, and Brady Hall, great-grandchildren, Carley House, Ezra Besaw, and Kinsley Mandigo, and many nieces and nephews.

He is predeceased by his parents and two sisters, Shirley Hays and Betty Jane Besaw.

Donations in memory of Hank may be made to Friends 4 Pound Paws, 55 Owl Road, Gouverneur NY 13642.